Hottest holiday hairstyle trends

Kori Ellis is an editor and writer based in San Antonio, TX, where she lives with her husband and four children. At SheKnows, she writes about parenting, fashion, beauty and other lifestyle topics. Additionally, Kori has been published i...

Lovely locks

For holiday parties, special dates and other seasonal events, do something a little different with your hair. Try one of the hottest holiday hairstyle trends, from updos to loose waves.

Messy bun

Your hairstyle doesn't have to be perfectly polished this holiday season. In fact, the messy bun is "in." The messy bun is perfect for the confident gal with the carefree attitude.

To create this look, gather and pull your hair into a mid-ponytail. Fasten it with an elastic band and then spray the length of the tail with styling spritz or hairspray to give it a little texture and grip. Coil the tail into a bun and secure it with bobby pins. Leave any stray hairs loose -- this bun is supposed to be messy, not overly coiffed. For an even "messier" look, don't coil the ponytail. Instead, pile sections of hair onto the top of the head or fold sections of the ponytail into itself, and then pin them to the scalp.

Vintage waves

You don't always have to wear your hair up for holiday parties and events. Leave your hair long and loose with some beautiful vintage waves. Wavy hair is flirty and romantic.

Use a small barrel (1-inch) curling iron. Wrap your hair around the iron (outside the clamp) holding the curling iron perpendicular to the floor. Hold for a few seconds and release. Repeat until you finish curling all your hair, and then use a round brush and a blow dryer on low heat/power to smooth out the curls. The result should be waves that are loose and soft.

Super sleek ponytail

Kim Kardashian is one of many celebrities that often sports a super sleek ponytail. This sophisticated look is polished and pretty.

Use a shine serum (like Citre Shine Polishing Serum or Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Anti-Frizz Serum and a flat iron to make your hair as straight and shiny as possible. Pull your hair back into a low ponytail and secure with an elastic. Cover the elastic with a festive bow, crystal clip or other hair accessory. Finish the look with a spritz of shine spray all over.